How do I tell if my mouth is healthy?

By Joey & Luke

There’s a lot more to a healthy mouth than a brilliant, white smile.

Everyday habits such as brushing, flossing, and drinking plenty of water are crucial in caring for the mouth.

If you’re committed to this routine and are also seeing the dentist regularly, is that a guarantee that you're in good oral health?

How do you know if your mouth is healthy? Here are some signs to check.

1. Pinkish firm gums

   Healthy gums are always pink and firm. Your teeth should be intact and firm in place. They shouldn’t feel loose.

   When you check your gums further, there should be no pockets or flaps or areas where they seem to be receding.

   Brushing and flossing daily can help keep the gums healthy. But improper and aggressive ways of cleaning the gums can also irritate them.

   Red, white, swollen, tender, and painful gums may be a sign of an issue. Gums that always bleed when brushing may also indicate a problem.

2. Healthy teeth

   Healthy teeth are free of cavities and are intact. They’re also not fragile and are properly aligned. If you have dental work such as fillings, they should also look and feel comfortable.

   Inspect your mouth to see if there are cracks, chips, or excessive discoloration. Observe well if your teeth feel extra sensitive to sudden changes in temperature.

   If your teeth feel loose, sensitive, or if you notice your dental work is in poor condition, let your dentist know immediately.

3. Pleasant breath

   It’s natural for the mouth to not smell fresh in the morning or after consuming certain food or beverages.

   But if the smell lingers after brushing or gargling with mouthwash, that may be a sign of an underlying issue.

   The foul smell may be due to harmful bacteria and debris nesting beneath the gums. It can also be a sign of early gum disease or other health problems, such as diabetes.

4. Properly aligned teeth

   Ideally, the upper and lower teeth should fit together. And you should be able to close your mouth with ease.

   When the teeth are straight and properly aligned, work is distributed properly between them when you chew or eat. They’re also easier to brush and keep clean.

   When there are empty spaces between teeth or they’re crooked or crowded, it may affect the appearance of your smile and your speaking and chewing abilities. They’re also harder to brush and floss.

   Jaw-related issues may also lead to headaches or sore neck, ears, and sinuses.

5. Clean tongue

   The tongue is an important part of the mouth. It helps you taste and enjoy your food.

   Like gums, the tongue should be pink and firm to touch. It should also be flat and clean. The tongue is also an ideal hiding place for bacteria and debris because of its uneven surface.

   See if your tongue feels thick or if there are any lumps, sores, or white patches. These may be signs of infection or more serious problems, such as diabetes or cancer.

6. Let your dentist examine your mouth

   It helps to monitor your mouth for potential signs of issues. But don’t forget that the best person to evaluate oral health is your dentist.

   Early detection is necessary for early treatment. And early treatment means you get to avoid the need for complex solutions and keep your dental costs low.

   A routine oral examination is usually done at least twice a year or every six months. But if you’re more vulnerable to dental issues, such as cavities, your dentist may ask you to visit more frequently. If you have any concerns about the health of your mouth, call our office today at (587) 317-9910